-Introduction
There’s nothing like a slice of Grandma’s Chocolate Pie to bring back sweet memories. This classic dessert combines a rich, creamy chocolate filling with a buttery, flaky pie crust. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply indulging in a nostalgic treat, this recipe is simple, straightforward, and irresistibly delicious.
-Ingredients
½ cup cocoa powder
¼ cup cornstarch
3 egg yolks (beaten)
1 ½ cups sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Pre-made or homemade meringue topping if desired.
-Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Filling
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add the beaten egg yolks and milk to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture.
3. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it thickens. This process usually takes 5–7 minutes.
4. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Assemble the Pie
1. Pour the warm chocolate filling into a pre-baked pie shell, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator to chill completely.
Optional Step 3: Add a Meringue Topping
1. If you’d like to add meringue, whisk the reserved egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the meringue over the chocolate filling and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until the meringue is golden.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
1. Once chilled, slice the pie into servings and enjoy its rich, chocolatey goodness.
2. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
-Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
2. Classic Flavor: A rich chocolate custard filling paired with a buttery crust never goes out of style.
3. Make It Your Own: Add a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel, or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.
-Tips for Success
Prevent Lumps: Whisk continuously while cooking the filling to ensure a smooth texture.
Use Whole Milk: For a creamier filling, opt for whole milk instead of skim or low-fat.
Pre-Bake the Pie Shell: Ensure your pie crust is baked and cooled before adding the filling to avoid sogginess.
-Serving Suggestions
Classic: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Festive: Garnish with chocolate curls or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a holiday-worthy presentation.
-Nutritional Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
-FAQs
-Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crust works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
-How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store the pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing, as the filling may separate.
-Can I Make This Pie Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free option. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
-Conclusion
Grandma’s Chocolate Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of nostalgia. With its creamy filling and rich chocolate flavor, this recipe is perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether you make it as-is or add your own twist, this pie is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Save this recipe and enjoy the timeless charm of Grandma’s kitchen today!
